650 Twins New Colourway, Interceptor 650 & Continental GT 650 Launch
A little history first. Did you know that the “Continental GT” motorcycle was the most powerful machine from Royal Enfield when it was launched back in 2013 and is reminiscent of the café racers of the 1960s, including the Enfield model from 1966.
When the last Enfield café racer was launched, it was powered by a re-engineered Bullet engine, with a 535cc capacity and fuel injection, matched to a five-speed transmission with a wet clutch.
Power was a modest 29hp. The chassis was designed by renowned English specialist Harris Performance. It featured 41mm conventional forks, twin Paoili rear shock absorbers and Brembo disc brakes. It had a top speed of around 150km/h with the not-too-loud factory performance pipe fitted.
Now for 2023 comes an updated Continental GT 650 that takes its inspiration from the 1970s era of British motorcycling, with its cast alloy wheels and blacked-out aesthetic.
Alongside its classically-styled, ‘50s and ‘60s-inspired predecessors, it recaptures the spirit of the cafe racer culture of the time and that of our own Continental GT 250.
With its sculpted tank, eager attitude and tucked-in riding position, it carries all the hallmarks of a traditional café racer, making it perfect for carving up the back roads or having a ton of fun in the city.
Last weekend the 650 Twins New Colourway, Interceptor 650 & Continental GT 650 was launch at Royal Enfield Petaling Jaya to the media as well as large group of Enfield owners who later that afternoon took a long and fun ride in their classic looking motorcycles.
Prices start from RM33,700 and unlike the Hunter 350 priced from RM22k and powered by a 349cc BS6 engine that delivers 20.2bhp and 27Nm of torque, the Conti 650 is powered by a parallel-twin with SOHC from a 648cc engine that has EFI. Mated to a six-speed gearbox, the Interceptor and Continental delivers effortless 47 hp at 7,250 rpm with 52 Nm of torque at 5,250 rpm.
So, what are the new colour choices for the Interceptor 650? You can pick between Black Ray and Barcelona Blue and for the two two-tone schemes, you can pick either Black Pearl or Cali Green.
Meanwhile, the Continental GT 650 has two new colour options are available which are Slipstream Blue and Apex Grey which comes with blacked-out engines and trim.
New features for the 2023 Interceptor and Continental GT include improved seat comfort, new handlebar switch blocks, USB charging port and LED headlight for added safety.
